Targeted therapies have revolutionized the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), offering more personalized and effective options compared to traditional treatments like chemotherapy. These therapies work by targeting specific genetic mutations or proteins that drive cancer growth, allowing for more precise and less toxic treatment.
One of the most well-known targets in NSCLC is the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). EGFR mutations are present in about 10-15% of NSCLC patients, particularly in non-smokers. Drugs like osimertinib and erlotinib inhibit the abnormal EGFR, blocking the signals that cause cancer cells to grow and divide. Patients with these mutations often experience significant tumor shrinkage and improved survival rates.
Another critical target is the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) fusion, found in approximately 5% of NSCLC patients. ALK inhibitors, such as alectinib and lorlatinib, have shown remarkable efficacy in treating ALK-positive NSCLC, even in cases where the cancer has spread to the brain.
ROS1, BRAF, and MET mutations are other targets for which specific inhibitors are available, further expanding treatment options. Targeted therapies have become essential in managing NSCLC, particularly for patients with specific genetic alterations. Ongoing research continues to identify new targets and develop next-generation inhibitors, offering hope for even better outcomes in the future.